Will Ace Bailey play for Jazz? First-round pick had ‘no idea’ Utah was interested in him as trade speculation swirls

One of the biggest stories of the NBA Draft was Ace Bailey, who was taken No. 5 overall by the Jazz despite a heavily criticized draft process.

Bailey didn’t work out with any team and reportedly tried to drop to one of his preferred teams. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony reported that Bailey wanted to go to the Wizards, Pelicans, or Nets, with the Jazz not on his list at all.

Jonathan Givony: “[Utah] was not one of his preferred destinations… was hoping to get to either Washington, New Orleans, or Brooklyn… a stunner, but if you think about it, this is an outstanding place for Ace Bailey.”

Bobby Marks: “I give Utah a lot of credit here…” #NBA pic.twitter.com/IQJoNzgwlm

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 26, 2025

At his first press conference as a member of the Jazz, Bailey acknowledged that he had “no idea” the Jazz were interested in him. He kept the focus on getting drafted into the NBA, and what that means for him and his family.

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“When they called my name … it was very emotional,” he said, via Ryan Smith. “My mom, I mean, she’s crying; the whole table’s crying because they know the hard work and sacrifices we made to be in this position — not just me, but my family also.”

The surprise pick has some fans wondering if Bailey will try to force his way out of Utah and to another team. Here’s the latest on Bailey’s intentions with his new team.

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Will Ace Bailey play for Jazz?

While Bailey reportedly didn’t prefer to land in Utah, there is no indication that Bailey will force his way off the Jazz. Additionally, Jake Fischer initially reported that the Jazz’s plan was to keep Bailey and not trade him.

When asked why he didn’t work out for the Jazz, or any team, Bailey deflected and said he was focused on basketball.

“I haven’t been worried about that. I’ve just been focusing on basketball,” Bailey said, via Andy Larsen. “That’s the main thing. That’s why I’m here, just to play the basketball side. I let my family and stuff deal with other stuff.”

For now, Bailey appears set to suit up for the Jazz next season, as the team seems determined to keep him and he has little leverage unless he’s willing to sit out an entire season. Based on his initial responses to questions about his destination, he doesn’t seem to have a problem with Utah, at least not a big enough one to derail the rest of his career.